Mosquitoes thrive despite drought – researchers once again seek public help

23.07.2025

Despite the severe drought affecting the country and record-low water levels in the Danube, the Tisza and Lake Balaton, mosquito numbers have not declined. These tiny bloodsuckers always seem to find a forgotten bucket, a barrel, or a puddle left behind after watering—perfect hidden spots to breed. This is particularly true of the Asian tiger mosquito, which has adapted to living close to humans as it has spread around the world.

Now in its sixth year, the Mosquito Monitor programme aims to map and predict the spread of invasive mosquito species in Hungary—including the Asian tiger mosquito—while gaining a more accurate understanding of their behaviour and ecology, and assessing their potential role in disease transmission. Researchers rely in part on contributions from the public: photo-documented observations submitted from anywhere in the country, on any day of the year, help build a more accurate picture of the mosquitoes’ distribution.

As most native mosquito species in Hungary rely on natural water bodies, their ability to reproduce is significantly limited during droughts like the current one. This, however, does not apply to invasive species.

The success of the Asian tiger mosquito as an invader is partly due to its ability to develop in stagnant water near humans in its new range, instead of the tree holes that were its original breeding sites.

Such breeding habitats may include flowerpot saucers, folds in tarpaulins left outside, or even cemetery flower vases.

These tiny, stripe-legged insects can develop in small puddles that collect here and there—in just a matter of days. And while for now they are mainly a source of sleepless nights and itchy bites, in the future these species could become vectors of tropical diseases, should such pathogens appear in Hungary. It is important to stress, however, that researchers have so far not detected any pathogens in invasive mosquitoes.

Anyone can help the researchers

As in previous years, the team behind Mosquito Monitor is once again inviting public reports. Anyone who spots an invasive mosquito can contribute significantly by quickly taking a photo and submitting it — via the website, email, the MosquitoAlert mobile app, or even by post. According to the researchers, citizen observations are of immense value in supporting effective mapping efforts, and, by extension, preparedness for potential disease outbreaks.